INTRODUCTION

This course is for anyone interested in learning about navigation or wanting to brush up on their knowledge.

WHERE

The course will be based in and around our Bothy in Alvie Estate.

AIM

The aim of this course is to provide attendees with the knowledge and experience in navigational skills that will allow them to have the confidence to put the skills into practice in their own time. This will also aid attendees in being able to confidently and competently plan and prepare hikes and expeditions using correct methods of navigation.

The first of two wild camp @ 1100 meters in Coire Domhain. One of Britain’s true wilderness spots

Introduction

This course is designed to equip attendees with the skills and knowledge to be able to carry out their own multi-day trips in mountainous regions. The secondary aim is to climb 4 of the 9 4000 foot mountains, and ascend 5 of the 6 highest mountains in Britain.

This course is ideal for anyone who is just getting into hill walking/mountaineering, or the experienced hill walker that wants to expand their knowledge of wild camping and safety aspects.

Where

The course is run in the Cairngorms National Park, in the highlands of Scotland. The Cairngorms National Park is the largest in Europe and is home to 5 of the 6 highest mountains in Britain. The Cairngorms is the highest, coldest and snowiest plateau in the British Isles, closely mimicking an Arctic tundra.

Skills Covered

Weather forecasting and interpretation

Mountain Weather information Service, Met Office and Synoptic chart interpretation

Equipment and kit needed for multi-day trips in the mountains
Packing for an expedition, rucksack packing demo, gas/fuel stove demonstrations, survival equipment and clothing/sleeping systems

Safe Route choice and planning

Naismith’s rule, timings and contour appreciation.

Navigational skills, map and compass as well as GPS

Orientating map to the ground, taking bearings, timing and pacing, contour appreciation. Introduction to GPS, and when it’s appropriate to use.

Tent choice and wild camping

Tunnel vs Dome vs Geodesic tents, when to us and why. Picking a wild camping pitch in an upland environment. pitching and tips.

Expedition food and nutrition/water safety

Sedimentation, filtration and purification of water in an upland environment. Man-made filter on the market.

Fitness

Due to the number of mountains climbed (7), over all distance, weight carried and height gain, individuals must have a good level of fitness. If you have any questions regarding fitness levels please contact us before booking on this course.

Difficulty Rating